Not much strength in depth to this novice event and it appears a match between Contract Scotland and King's Bounty. The latter was the better hurdler of the pair and has more chase experience than his main rival but has struggled to transfer his form to the larger obstacles and may have to settle for minor honours on this occasion. Contract Scotland has proved a most progressive staying hurdler and completed a hat-trick before a below-par effort when last seen out in November. Sure to have been well schooled and the type who goes well fresh, it would come as no surprise if Lennie Lungo's charge proved good enough to make a winning debut. Benefit ran a sound race when runner-up in a handicap last time but has plenty to find with the principals on these terms and promising novice Iron Express is likely to give the selection more to fear.
